The much-anticipated sequel to the iconic 1997 war drama Border has made a thunderous entry at the Indian box office.
Border 2 opened to an impressive start, proving that patriotic action dramas still command strong audience pull across the country.
Border 2 Box Office Collection Day 1:
According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the Sunny Deol-led film collected ₹32.10 crore nett in India on its opening day, Friday, January 23, 2026.
Released on a non-holiday / working day, #Border2 takes a flying start on Day 1 – registering not only the *biggest opening of 2026* so far, but also matching the *biggest opener of 2025* – #Chhaava [₹ 33.10 cr].#Border2 has performed exceptionally well in the mass belts, with… pic.twitter.com/rrUNxe5weF
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) January 24, 2026
This marks the biggest opening day of 2026 so far and places the film on par with Chhaava, which recorded ₹33.10 crore on Day 1 in 2025 and held last year’s opening record.
Strong Performance Despite Multiple Challenges
What makes Border 2’s opening particularly notable is the fact that the film released on a non-holiday working Friday.
In addition, heavy rainfall in several parts of North India affected footfall in key mass belts.
Despite these obstacles, the film performed exceptionally well, especially at single-screen cinemas where occupancy levels remained strong throughout the day.
Urban centers started off on a steady note but showed clear growth as evening and night shows progressed, indicating rising interest driven by audience feedback.
Trade Estimates and Official Numbers
Industry tracking platforms reported varying early estimates.
Sacnilk placed the Day 1 nett collection at approximately ₹30 crore, while initial trade predictions ranged between ₹28 crore and ₹31 crore.
However, official figures released by the makers and confirmed by leading trade analysts settled at ₹32.10 crore, cementing Border 2 as one of the strongest openers in recent times.
Positive Word of Mouth Fuels Weekend Expectations
Audience reactions have been largely positive, with praise directed at the film’s action sequences, emotional moments, and patriotic tone.
Sunny Deol’s return to his larger-than-life action persona, supported by Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty, has resonated strongly with fans.
With Republic Day falling on Monday, the film enjoys a four-day extended weekend.
Trade experts expect significant growth over Saturday and Sunday, with optimistic projections suggesting the film could cross ₹120 crore nett if momentum continues.
A Modern Expansion of a Classic Legacy
Directed by Anurag Singh and produced by JP Films and T-Series, Border 2 carries forward the legacy of J.P. Dutta’s original while introducing a new generation of soldiers and contemporary challenges.
As the film moves into its crucial weekend phase, all eyes are on whether it can convert its powerful opening into a full-fledged box office blockbuster.
Lead Image: T-Series, BMS
Also Read:
Border 2 Review: Sunny Deol And Patriotism Hits Hard In This Grand War Spectacle